Executive Protection - Conduct Advance Reconnaissance

Whether protecting yourself or hired to protect executives, it's important to conduct advance Reconnaissance of your destination. It doesn't matter whether you're traveling internationally, or staying in your home country.

While in Special Forces, a vital step in our planning process involved conducting a Reconnaissance of an area or target.

MISSIONS TRIPS

Having been one of the operatives who conducted these 'Recon's', I can tell you first hand of their importance. We'd collect information on the topography, enemy strength (and weakness). We'd survey bridges and know the best ways to get in and get out, quickly.

A "Recon" is about gathering information vital to the mission. And if you think about it, you already do an informal 'recon' before most trips.

You probably take for granted your knowledge of domestic travel. You already understand a little about security precautions at hotels.
You're already aware of your local laws and customs. And you already (or should) have appropriate insurance.
What about traveling internationally.
Have you really looked into and considered these elements?

Waiting until something happens is not Executive Protection, it's panicked re-action.

The purpose of this section is to allow you to bring a more systemized approach to:
Minimize disruptions and unnecessary damage caused during your trip, and Ensure a successful, event-free trip. Obviously you don't put the same amount of effort into flying to another city for 24 hours, that you would a 24-day international trip.

So here are some elements you should review and become familiar with before your next trip.

Security
Domestic considerations might involve in-room safes. International considerations include; travel advisories and other country-specific warnings issued by the US State Department or your local government. Internet
Domestic and International considerations are "do they have it" plus I'd recommend inquiring and understanding their online security protocol. Ask your network administrator (or do your own research) to understand the risks of using their internet connection. Telephone
Domestic telephone use is rarely an issue unless 'coverage' is a consideration due to remote or otherwise poor reception area. International use is about understanding accessibility and costs before you go. Local Laws and Customs
Ignore these at your own peril. If traveling overseas, you can 'rely' on your hosts to look after you, but, you're putting your safety in their hands. Do your own research and understand the risks. Remember spitting on the sidewalk in Singapore can get you arrested. It would be nice to know that before you arrive. Executive Protection is more than bodyguards surrounding the asset, it's about preparation, advance work and thorough analysis of the scope of the mission.

Executive Protection - Conduct Advance Reconnaissance

MISSIONS TRIPS